Australia is known for its expansive red outback and golden sand beaches, however you may be surprised to learn that it can get quite cold Down Under in winter… it even snows in some parts making it perfect for winter holidays!
Given Australia‘s size, the climate varies greatly from one region to the next, although generally speaking, winter temperatures are usually mild during the coolest season, which is June-August in the Southern Hemisphere.
New Zealand is also a country with a varying climate, with the far north having subtropical weather during summer, and inland alpine areas of the South Island as cold as -10°C (14°F) in winter.
Ways to winter holiday Down Under
In the cooler months, both destinations shine with sensational snow fields for skiing and snowboarding, wonderful winter activities like whale watching charters, and of course, plenty of places to warm up at the end of a day.
Some of the best fireside experiences to be had across Australia and New Zealand can be found in the incredible, unique luxury lodges dotted around the countryside, which often pair warmth with unforgettable views.
Here’s a selection of our favourite warm and cosy firesides, all vetted by Touring Treasures’ core travel team before being included into our portfolio of luxury accommodations, ready for you to enjoy on your next holiday.
AUSTRALIA
1. Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island
Warm up by the fireplace while cliffside, looking out over dramatic, rugged coastline and views of the Southern Ocean from the comfort of your luxurious suite hidden away in the wilds of this remote Australian island.
2. Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania
After exploring the rugged Tasmanian wilderness, combine the warmth and aroma of a logfire with breathtaking views of the Hazards Mountains and Great Oyster Bay, and you have yourself an idyllic and memorable experience at this luxury lodge on the beautiful Freycinet Peninsula.
3. Lake House, Daylesford
Curl up with a glass of bubbles in the Argyle Library of this renowned luxury retreat in Victoria’s spa country, set on six acres of country gardens extending down to the waters of Lake Daylesford.
4. Spicers Peak Lodge, Queensland
Take in the majestic mountain views from the warmth of the outdoor firepit or the striking heavy stone fireplace in your luxurious room at this lodge, set high in the Scenic Rim, 1,100 metres above sea level in unspoiled Australian wilderness.
5. Sequoia Lodge, Adelaide Hills
Savour a glass of sparkling and caviar by the warming flames of the fireplace in your luxurious room or in the lounge at this new luxury lodge afoot the iconic Mount Lofty House in the Adelaide Hills wine region.
6. Kingsford, Barossa Valley
Enhance your love for wine, staying at this stunning private 160-year-old homestead with not one but two wine cellars (the second is 25 metres long!) and a number of fireplaces, including one in the Signature Suite, and one in the bar so you can sit by its glow while sipping a bold Barossa red, surrounded by vineyards.
7. Chalets at Blackheath, Blue Mountains
Toast marshmallows while surrounded by Aussie bushland at the top of the Grand Canyon in the spectacular Blue Mountains, just outside of Sydney. Stay in one of four freestanding chalets and discover that the only interruptions here are the crackling of wood burning in the fireplace and the trill of a local silvereye bird outside.
8. The Frames, Barossa Valley
Jump from the infra-red sauna and therapy jacuzzi across to the warmth of the open fire in one of three opulent, private retreats designed for couples, set on the peaceful banks of the Murray River in the Riverlands.
9. El Questro Homestead, Kimberley
Conclude your day of outback adventures under the stars by the outdoor firepit of this remote luxury ten-suite lodge in Western Australia, surrounded by 700,000 acres of land in the heart of the Kimberley.
10. Jackalope Hotel, Mornington Peninsula
Warm up the hand not holding a glass of wine by the firepit as you admire the rolling hills of the pristine LL Vineyard in Australia’s Mornington Peninsula wine region, at this luxury hotel on a 28-acre rural property, one hour from Melbourne.
11. Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island
After soaking up the sun in the island paradise of World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island, retreat with a cocktail to the large open river rock fireplace with mountain and reef break reviews at this gorgeous lodge offering barefoot luxury at the foot of the towering Gower and Lidgbird mounts.
NEW ZEALAND
1. Blanket Bay Lodge, Glenorchy
Turn up the heat while sipping a local pinot by the fire amidst snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in New Zealand’s South Island, at this beautiful Relais & Châteaux collection lodge. Here you’ll find grand stone fireplaces in both the main lodge and the private suites, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
2. Huka Lodge, Taupo
Keep warm even when the weather is at its coldest at one of New Zealand’s oldest and most celebrated luxury lodges, set by the Waikato River. With fireplaces in the main lodge and private cottages, enjoy a glowing ambiance after a day exploring the beautiful Taupo region.
3. Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay
Cosy up by the large stone fireplace in this luxurious lodge’s main living area or enjoy the warmth of the outdoor fire pit overlooking the Pacific Ocean, North Island of New Zealand. This luxurious lodge combines rustic charm with modern elegance, in a stunning spot atop rolling hills and dramatic cliffs with panoramic ocean views.
4. Otahuna Lodge, Canterbury
Channel your inner lord or lady of the manor, and cosy up by one of the grand fireplaces in the drawing rooms and suites of this charming historic mansion near Christchurch. Unwind with a good book or a glass of New Zealand wine, amongst a blend of Victorian elegance and contemporary comfort.
5. Minaret Station Alpine Lodge, Wanaka
Meander between the hot tub and roaring fireplaces of one of four private chalets at this unique alpine lodge, set in a remote glacial valley surrounded by towering peaks, and accessible only by helicopter.
6. Eichardt’s Private Hotel, Queenstown
Defrost by the fire after a day skiing the slopes at this 160-year-old architectural beauty of a lakeside residence on Lake Wakatipu. Located in the heart of Queenstown, it offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury, with suites and the Parlour Bar feature inviting fireplaces.
7. Wharekauhau Country Estate, Wairarapa
Hideaway by the warmth of the grand fireplaces in the main lodge and private cottages of this cosy retreat, set high on the dramatic cliff tops with views of Palliser Bay and sprawling farmlands, just outside Wellington.
8. Lodge at The Hills, Queenstown
Warm up after a day on the green, at this exclusive lodge on The Hills private golf course, with six designer rooms sparing no expense, with private sitting areas, gas fireplaces, and picture-perfect views from the comfort of lavish spa-inspired ensuite baths.
9. The Marlborough Lodge, Blenheim
Enjoy evening cocktails by the outdoor fireplace of this historic, unique and luxurious accommodation experience, positioned within scenic vineyards on 16 acres of established gardens & vineyards, in the world-renowned Marlborough wine region.
10. Flock Hill Lodge, Canterbury
Settle into one of the round of armchairs circling the grand stone fireplace in the main living area of this incredible hidden gem – a luxurious alpine lodge set on a working sheep station of 36,000 acres in the Craigieburn Valley in the South Island.
